TALKS on the future of Huddersfield's library and market hall will not start again for some months, a political leader revealed today.

A debate on the future of both sites was put on hold when they were named as listed buildings. The decision means alterations to the 1930s library and the 1970s market hall will be restricted.

Clr John Smithson, deputy leader of Kirklees Council, said: "Since the announcement in August to list the two buildings a lot of work has been done to look at revised options, bearing in mind the significant impact of listing the buildings.

"That work is still in progress and will continue for some weeks yet."

The consultation also includes questions about the regeneration of The Piazza area between the two.

Clr Smithson said a further independent retail assessment and a traffic impact assessment were needed.

"This is a complex piece of work and it is important to get the best possible outline scheme," he said.

"Initial work is likely to be completed during the early part of next year, following which there will be a period of public consultation if a feasible scheme or options can be developed."

Clr Smithson said a "do nothing" option would still mean several million pounds having to be spent on essential repairs and maintenance of the library and market hall.

He explained: "In terms of the market hall, the building needs at least £1.5m spending on essential repairs over the next five years.

"These include replacing the heating and electrical systems, plus a further £3m in the longer term on repair and maintenance.

"The library is in need of repairs approaching £4m."

The area at the centre of the debate covers more than seven acres of the town centre.